Cyberhate: The Far Right in the Digital Age

Cyberhate: The Far Right in the Digital Age examines right-wing extremists' operations in cyberspace, including propaganda, funding, subcultures, movements, offline violence, and ideologies. It provides an extensive analysis of the far-right online political landscape, focusing on specific groups, individuals, and acts of violence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

Cyberhate: The Far Right in the Digital Age delves into the intricate world of right-wing extremism in cyberspace, examining its various aspects through a comprehensive lens. This insightful book brings together scholars and practitioners from diverse disciplines, including criminal justice, psychology, cybersecurity, religion, law, education, and terrorism studies, to offer a thorough analysis of the far-right online political landscape. The book explores key topics such as the legal frameworks surrounding cyberhate, the dissemination of propaganda, the use of Bitcoin for funding, the emergence of online subcultures like the manosphere, the factors that drive individuals to resort to violence, and specific movements like the alt-right and the terrorist Atomwaffen Division. By relying on manifestos and other online correspondence from recent perpetrators of mass murder, the book provides a poignant insight into the motivations behind concepts like "white genocide" and incel ideology, which have been linked to recent deadly violence.

The rise of the far right in the digital age has been a concerning trend, with extremist groups using online platforms to spread their message and recruit members. Cyberhate, the expression of hatred towards individuals or groups online, has become a prevalent issue, with hate speech and violence often spilling over into the real world. This book aims to explore the far right in the digital age, examining their propaganda, funding, subcultures, movements, offline violence, and ideologies that drive them.

Propaganda is a key tool used by the far right to spread their message and influence public opinion. Social media platforms have provided a fertile ground for the spread of misinformation and hate speech, with extremist groups using algorithms and targeted advertising to reach their target audience. The use of memes, videos, and other visual content has also been effective in conveying their message and inspiring fear and hatred.

Funding is another critical aspect of the far right's operations in the digital age. Many extremist groups rely on donations from individuals and organizations, often using online platforms to solicit funds. Bitcoin, a decentralized digital currency, has become popular among far-right groups as it allows for anonymous and secure transactions. This has made it easier for extremist groups to raise funds and avoid detection by law enforcement.

Subcultures are also an important part of the far right's online presence. Online forums and communities, such as the manosphere, have provided a space for men to express their frustrations and grievances, often leading to toxic masculinity and extreme beliefs. These subcultures can be particularly dangerous as they can promote violence and hate speech, and can be difficult to regulate.

Movements such as the alt-right and the Atomwaffen Division are two examples of far-right groups that have gained significant traction in the digital age. The alt-right is a white nationalist movement that promotes anti-immigration, anti-Semitism, and white supremacy. The Atomwaffen Division, on the other hand, is a terrorist group that advocates for the overthrow of the government and the establishment of a white nationalist state.

Offline violence is another aspect of the far right's activities in the digital age. While online hate speech and propaganda can be harmful, the real-world consequences can be even more severe. Extremist groups have been known to organize and participate in protests, rallies, and even acts of violence, often targeting marginalized communities and individuals.

Ideologies that drive the far right are diverse and complex, but they often revolve around a sense of grievance and a desire to protect traditional values. The far right often portrays immigrants, Muslims, and other marginalized groups as threats to national security and social stability, and seeks to promote a return to a perceived golden age of white supremacy.

In conclusion, the far right in the digital age is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach. By examining their propaganda, funding, subcultures, movements, offline violence, and ideologies, we can better understand the threat they pose to society and work towards mitigating their impact.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 231 x 154 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793606990